If your vehicle is registered in a major metro area like Chicago you must have it tested every two years and pass the test with no emissions codes. In many cases even non-emisssions code errors will cause you to fail the test.

The error codes must be repaired before you can get your annual sticker renewed and that could cost thousands of dollars, especially if you have more than one code.

If you don't understand the process, you could be stuck with thousands of dollars in repairs that actually aren't needed, especially if you have an older car.

Illinois Shakes Up Air Team

Emissions test, repair attempts stress driver



If your vehicle has a check engine light and the code (or multiple codes) do not affect the driveability, DO NOT RUSH TO MAKE THE REPAIRS RIGHT AWAY, or just make repairs that are absolutely needed.

Wait until you need to take your car for the emissions test and do it as soon as you are allowed to.

When you take the test and fail it, you will get a printout with the error codes. Do not make the repairs yet but discuss it with various repair shops and get some estimates.

Reset and clear the codes and drive the car for a few weeks or until the check engine light comes back on again. Then go back for a re-test. You will fail again and get a printout with the codes once more.

Get the first code on the list repaired at the lowest possible cost ($450 or more) and drive the car for a few weeks again.

Go back for a retest and then apply for the two year waiver.

Complete your waiver application process then go back for the vehicle inspection.

After the inspection you will be able to get a new sticker good for two years.

Do not spend any money on additional repairs until your next emissions test unless the problem will result in more serious damage to your vehicle.

Repeat the process above the next time (in two years) you fail the emissions test.  .